When a firearm owner dies, the estate remains the owner and licence holder, but control of the firearm falls to the executor - with duties under the Act.
The executor's duties
- Store the firearm safely (SABS-compliant safe), or place it with a licensed heir under a letter of consent filed with that heir's DFO.
- Compile an inventory (make, type, calibre, serial numbers, ammunition).
- Report to the Registrar within 14 days of appointment, and update every three months on the transfer progress.
Inheriting a firearm
An heir who wishes to keep an inherited firearm must obtain competency for the category and then apply for a licence, supported by the executor's letter of authority, the will (if applicable), and the deceased's valid licence card as at date of death.
If nobody wants it
The executor may sell the firearm to a third party (with a written guarantee it's free of heirs' claims), or have it deactivated or destroyed under the Act.
Frequently asked
Can I keep a firearm I inherited?
Yes, if you obtain SAPS competency for that category and then apply for a licence, supported by the executor's documents and the deceased's valid licence as at date of death.
What must an executor do with a deceased estate's firearm?
Store it safely, compile an inventory, and report to the Registrar within 14 days of appointment, updating every three months until the firearms are transferred.
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